Lima spreads across a coastal desert where the Pacific sits below steep grey cliffs and the Andes rise behind the city. It is the political, cultural, financial and commercial centre of Peru, and the historic old city and the modern seaside districts feel like different cities stitched together.
For a visitor, the practical split is between the historic centre and the coastal districts to the south, with the airport and seaport in neighbouring Callao to the west. This guide covers which areas make a sensible base, and what each is like for first-time visitors, families, nightlife and budget travellers.
Best areas to stay in Lima
1. Miraflores
Miraflores is one of the nicest and safest areas in the city, and it sits on the coast. It suits first-time visitors who want an easy, comfortable base with plenty of places to eat and walk, and it works well for families too.
Accommodation here tends to be pricier than the old city centre and other parts of Lima, though some budget options do exist. It is a good base if you would rather be out on the coast than in the historic core.
2. San Isidro
San Isidro is one of the nicest and safest areas in the city, and it is generally calm and residential in feel. It suits visitors who want quiet and security, and it is a reasonable choice for families or anyone staying longer.
Like Miraflores, it sometimes comes a bit pricier than the old city centre and other parts, but budget accommodation options do exist. It is a comfortable base within the modern part of the city.
3. San Borja
San Borja is one of the nicest and safest areas in the city. It suits visitors who prefer a quieter, more local base away from the busiest visitor districts, and it can work for families.
As with the other safe districts, it sometimes comes a bit pricier than the old city centre and other parts, though some budget accommodation options do exist.
4. Surco
Surco is one of the nicest and safest areas in the city. It suits visitors who want a relaxed base and do not mind being a little further from the coast and the historic centre.
It sometimes comes a bit pricier than the old city centre and other parts, but budget accommodation options do exist.
5. The old city centre
The old city centre is the historic core of Lima. It suits visitors who want to be close to the historic sights and who are looking for cheaper accommodation than the coastal districts.
Keep in mind that the old city may not be safe for tourists at night, so it is worth weighing that against the convenience of staying among the historic streets.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: budget accommodation options exist in the safe coastal districts and in the old city centre, where prices are generally lower than in Miraflores, San Isidro, San Borja and Surco.
- Mid-range: the safe districts of Miraflores, San Isidro, San Borja and Surco offer a broad choice, though they sometimes come a bit pricier than the old city centre and other parts.
- Splurge: the nicest and safest areas of the city, including Miraflores, San Isidro, San Borja and Surco, are where you will find the higher end of the market.
Best area for a first visit
Miraflores is the best area for a first visit. It is one of the nicest and safest areas in the city and sits on the coast, which makes it an easy base while you get your bearings. It sometimes costs a bit more than the old city centre, but budget options do exist.
Frequently asked questions
Which areas of Lima are considered the nicest and safest?
Surco, Miraflores, San Borja and San Isidro are some of the nicest and safest areas in the city.
Is the old city centre a good place to stay?
It can be cheaper than the coastal districts, but keep in mind that the old city may not be safe for tourists at night.
Are the safe districts more expensive?
They sometimes come a bit pricier than the old city centre and other parts, although some budget accommodation options do exist.
Where is the airport in relation to the city?
The seaport and the Jorge Chávez Airport are located in Callao, to the west of Lima.
Compare live prices for these areas with the booking tools on this page before you decide where to base yourself.